Khawaja and Burns win recalls

Burns is likely to slot into the retired Chris Rogers’ opening spot, with Khawaja to round out the top order with captain Steven Smith for the opening test in Brisbane starting November 5 and the following match in Perth.

David Warner has been named to open the Australian innings after proving his recovery from the broken thumb he suffered in a one-day worldwide against England in September.

The 26-year-old Burns returns to the side after playing the final two tests against India during the last home summer, while left-hander Khawaja will play his first test since August 2013.

“I don’t like mentioning blokes but on this occasion, without giving away what was discussed at the meeting, it warrants because they were all that close”, Marsh said. In fact they’re a damn good side. “We think this squad has the goods to do it and also provides an opportunity for a few exciting younger players to make their mark in the Test arena”.

“I certainly still have aspirations and if I can keep making runs you never know, but I don’t think it is going to happen now”.

Mitchell Johnson and Mitchell Starc will be the spearheads of the bowling attack which also features Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood.

Burns and Khawaja, who were included in the Test squad for the September-October tour of Bangladesh, which has been postponed indefinitely following security concerns on the part of the visitors, both scored centuries for a Cricket Australia XI in last weekend’s tour match against New Zealand in Canberra.

“I don’t personally think it was time for wild experimentation, I think we had to be very measured with this team to allow the new captain the best chance of getting off (to a winning start)”.

Rod Marsh, the chairman of selectors, speaking on their inclusion said that Usman is a great player of fast bowling and a fine technician, insisting the latter might make significant contribution to the side.

The rest of the squad is as expected, with all-rounder Mitchell Marsh and veteran batsman Adam Voges both retained. The three-Test series, which will be Steve Smith’s first as permanent captain, starts at the Gabba on Thursday.

“Adam is a calm player with a cool head and brings a lot of experience to the side”.

“He has a solid Test and first-class average and will provide good support to our two young leaders in Steve Smith and David Warner”.

Khawaja has not played for Australia since the 2013 Ashes series.